HEALTHWATCH About half of Americans plan to skip COVID and flu shots. A doctor explains why that is "very concerning."

 

As flu season approaches and COVID-19 cases persist in various parts of the United States, health experts are increasingly concerned about Americans' reluctance to get vaccinated.

A recent survey conducted by Ohio State Wexner Medical Center reveals that less than half of Americans plan to receive their COVID-19 or flu vaccinations this season.

Dr. Nora Colburn, an infectious disease specialist at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, expressed her concerns to CBS News, calling these findings "very troubling."

"We need a significant majority of our population to get vaccinated to protect our entire community," she emphasized.

The national poll, which surveyed over 1,000 individuals, found that more than one-third (37%) of respondents who previously received vaccines do not intend to get vaccinated this year.

Dr. Colburn stresses the importance of vaccinations in safeguarding both individual and public health. Updated COVID-19 vaccines and this year’s flu shots are now available.

"Vaccinations also protect against complications from both infections," Dr. Colburn explained. "We know that individuals infected with influenza and COVID-19 are at higher risk for bacterial infections and cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes."

The survey indicates that adults aged 65 and older are the most likely to receive the recommended vaccines.

"They are at the highest risk of severe disease. The vaccine significantly reduces their risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and even death," Dr. Colburn added.